URGENT UPDATE: The Connecticut Sun delivered a decisive blow to the New York Liberty, winning 78-62 on July 14, 2023, in a critical matchup. The Liberty faced a tough challenge, playing without star forward Breanna Stewart, who is sidelined with a bone bruise in her right knee, marking their fourth consecutive defeat.
The Liberty, now at 17-10, struggled significantly, as they were also missing Nyara Sabally (knee) and Kennedy Burke (right calf strain), leaving them with just eight healthy players. This marks the team’s longest losing streak since 2022, when they faced similar five-game and seven-game skids.
In a noteworthy addition, Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP, joined the Liberty but did not play as she acclimates to her new team. Coach Sandy Brondello anticipates her participation in the upcoming rematch against Connecticut on Sunday.
The Sun, with a record of 5-21, saw a strong performance from Marina Mabrey, who tallied 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. Reserves Olivia Nelson-Ododa and Leila Lacan each contributed 16 points, while Tina Charles added 15 points. This victory was crucial for a young team striving to establish its identity.
Connecticut initially trailed 20-15 at the end of the first quarter but surged ahead in the second, entering halftime with a 44-37 lead after Charles hit a jumper just before the buzzer. The Sun showcased impressive shooting, hitting 50% from the field in the first half.
In the third quarter, the Sun extended their lead to 56-46 thanks to Mabrey’s three-pointer with 3:36 remaining in the period. However, the Liberty fought back, narrowing the score to 69-62 on a layup from Stephanie Talbot with 5:08 left in the game. Unfortunately for New York, that was their last score of the night, finishing the game with a staggering 21 turnovers.
As the teams prepare for their next clash, all eyes will be on whether the Liberty can recover and regain their footing. The urgency mounts as fans eagerly await the outcome of the rematch on Sunday in Connecticut.